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Analytics play such a prominent role in measuring herd performance on commercial farms that the data collected on livestock can be used to improve productivity and make informed management decisions. Nowhere has this become more evident than the data collected in weighing livestock. It has proven so beneficial for farmers that portable livestock weighing scales…

Of prime importance for any swine operation is providing a proper farrowing environment for your sow and piglets. Maximum performance for your herd begins on day one, with every effort made to ensure the comfort and care of the animals. At the top of the list for creature comfort is achieving an ideal temperature for…

In hog farming, gestation crates are utilized as an individual pen in which sows and gilts are confined during the period of pregnancy. Also known as sow stalls, the enclosures are generally made of metal and come in various sizes. They were introduced in the 1960s to increase production on farms, to meet a pig’s…

What to feed pigs is an important first step to ensure maximum weight gain for the herd. Feeding and nutritional strategies for pigs, no matter the age, is one of the keys for success. Certainly, there are many considerations that can influence production, and your farm’s profits when managing your herd. The success of any…

Maintaining a minimum ventilation rate for barns and other livestock housing is an important factor in improving productivity and thus, profitability, of farming operations. Animals within a confined building must have ventilation, either through natural or mechanical means, or by a combination of the two methods. Livestock productivity is linked to and influenced by the…

Pig weaning is a time of significant change and stress in a pig’s life. In fact, that period has been noted by researchers as the most challenging in all of the hog production cycle. Piglets are weaned between three or four weeks of age. Though it may be economical, the transition to dry feed can…

Modern pig farming technology has transformed pig farms across the country and around the world. The successful pig farm today is one where farmers use technology to their advantage. In doing so, farm operations are improved for both workers and animals. Automated livestock processes and tasks can provide and deliver better animal care. The result…

The significance of pig feed conversions in modern pig production is a key to operating a successful commercial farm. As feed costs and other overhead increases, turning quality pig feed into weight gain is an absolute necessity to turn a profit. What is Feed Conversion Ratio? Feed conversion ratio (FCR) or feed conversion efficiency (FCE)…

A swine disease prevention strategy should be a common practice for all hog farmers. To have a successful farm, keeping animals healthy is a must. A health plan for your herd will help to minimize disease incidence. Pig-specific diseases can have major repercussions for the herd, the farm, and people themselves. The introduction of viruses…